creep

creep

1. a physical property of materials that results in progressive deformation when a constant load is applied over time; it allows soft tissues to tolerate applied loads by lengthening.

2. to move along the ground using the arms and legs for propulsion. The trunk does not touch the ground.

creep

(krēp),

Any time-dependent strain developing in a material or an object in response to the application of a force or stress.

creep

a rheological effect of metals and other solid materials that may become elongated or deformed as a result of a load being applied for a long period. For example, creep can occur in silver amalgam fillings that have been in place for some time.

Cosmetic surgery A phenomenon that occurs in scalp reduction surgery after excision of a large area of alopecia, in which the skin slowly expands in response to a continuous force—e.g., the suture line at the point of closureManaged care DRG creepMaterials science Cold flow A time-dependent strain or deformation of a material in response to a continuous force or constant stress; creep is of interest to orthopaedists who place prosthetic devices in weight-bearing regions—e.g., polyethylene components of artificial jointsPhysiology A slow, continued lengthening of a muscle following a first phase of muscle lengtheningVox populi A ne’er do well

creep

(krēp, krēp)

Progressive deformation of a material due to exposure to constant load over an extended period.

[M.E. crepen, fr. A.S. crēopan]

creep

(krēp)

Any time-dependent strain developing in a material or an object in response to the application of a force or stress.

creep

a barrier containing small apertures. Only the young animals of the group can penetrate the barrier. See also creeping.

creep barrier

a barred barrier permitting maximum auditory, olfactory, visual and palpatory contact without domination. A useful technique in a primate colony.

creep feeding

feed is placed on one side of the barrier and only the young can get access to it.

creep grazing

a creep is placed across the entrance to the pasture and only animals small enough to penetrate the creep get access to the pasture.

creep ration

a weaning diet, suitable for weaning the young, which are the only animals able to penetrate the creep.

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